Chapter 1: The Changing Landscape of Employment

In recent years, significant disruptions have reshaped the work environment. Factors such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of automation are prompting questions about the future of employment. Notably, a study by the McKinsey Global Institute predicts that automation could eliminate up to 73 million jobs by 2030.

To gain deeper insights into these changes, we consulted various leaders from business, government, and labor sectors. As part of our "Preparing For The Future Of Work" series, we had the opportunity to interview Danny Abdo, the Chief Operations Officer at Skillable.

Danny Abdo joined Skillable in early 2023, focusing on enhancing the company's revenue, product, and marketing strategies. His previous experience includes serving as Senior Vice President of Global Business Solutions at Degreed, where he concentrated on learning and HR technologies. Before that, he held a similar role at Bank of America, overseeing several teams and initiatives within the global learning organization.

Thank you for participating in this series, Danny! To help our audience understand you better, could you share some insights about your background and the experiences that have shaped you?

My journey in the learning sector spans nearly two decades, where I have engaged in strategizing and implementing learning programs across various organizations. My tenure at both Degreed and Bank of America allowed me to develop a unique perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of corporate Learning & Development (L&D). This insight is invaluable in my role as COO at Skillable.

As we navigate a world of rapid change, continuous upskilling has never been more crucial. Unfortunately, many employees find themselves disappointed by mediocre learning experiences that merely fulfill compliance requirements. L&D departments have the potential to provide far more by meeting employees' immediate needs, facilitating skill practice, and fostering confidence in applying new knowledge in real-world situations. Employers, in turn, need effective methods to validate these skills to ensure their workforce is equipped for the job.

What major disruptions do you foresee for employers in the coming 10–15 years, and how can they adapt?

Technology is a major catalyst for change across various industries. We are still determining how advancements in AI, automation, cloud computing, and other technologies will influence the workplace. Therefore, cultivating a culture of continuous learning among employees is essential. As new skills emerge due to technological advancements, organizations that can quickly adapt will have a competitive advantage. For instance, the advent of ChatGPT necessitated that many knowledge workers quickly acquire skills like prompt engineering and critical thinking to effectively assess AI-generated content.

We are on the brink of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which will redefine our work, interactions, and learning. Traditional learning models, designed for the Information Age, are becoming obsolete. In the near future, individuals seeking knowledge will likely consult their AI assistants for tailored learning experiences. As knowledge becomes more accessible, the emphasis will shift to practical skills and the ability to apply that knowledge effectively.

I have concerns about the widening skills gap as AI takes on a larger role in our lives and workplaces.

The decision to pursue a college education has become increasingly complex. With many successful individuals lacking degrees and graduates facing overwhelming student debt, young adults must consider their career paths carefully. What advice would you offer to those weighing the decision of attending college?

Ultimately, it boils down to the required skills for your desired profession. Today's students are entering an unpredictable workforce where traditional career paths are evolving. Predictions suggest that many will navigate through numerous roles over their lifetimes, often changing jobs every few years. Given this landscape, certain degrees may not be the most effective route to employment. While some professions will still necessitate formal education and validated training, others will see individuals pursuing alternative paths to acquire the necessary skills.

This shift could positively impact society by making jobs more accessible and alleviating concerns about student debt. As we approach a projected $8.5 trillion skills gap by 2030—resulting in approximately 85 million unfilled positions—it is clear that academia alone cannot solve this issue.

In summary, explore diverse options for skill-building. Employers are increasingly prioritizing skills over formal degrees in their talent acquisition strategies.

Despite some alarming predictions about job losses, there will still be employment opportunities. How should job seekers alter their approaches to finding fulfilling work that aligns with their abilities and interests?

While certain roles may vanish, automation is expected to create a net gain of approximately 58 million jobs. However, the skills required for future employability will shift. As some skills become automated, job seekers will need to demonstrate current, validated skills rather than relying solely on outdated qualifications like a college degree. Those who keep pace with in-demand skills will have a competitive advantage in the job market.

Concerns over AI and automation's potential to displace jobs are understandable. With companies like Walmart planning to eliminate cashiers and Domino’s exploring driverless delivery, how can individuals prepare their careers to minimize the risk of being replaced by technology?

While some positions may disappear, many will evolve, requiring employees to adapt and enhance their skills to work alongside emerging technologies. This evolution can lead to a more rewarding work experience, as individuals engage in more complex tasks rather than repetitive duties traditionally assigned to machines.

To safeguard against the impact of automation, it's vital to stay informed about developments in AI and robotics and to continuously learn new skills. Establishing a regular learning routine, even if it involves just a few hours a week, can significantly enhance your skill set, making you more valuable to employers.

The pandemic has accelerated the shift towards remote work. Do you believe this trend will persist, and if so, why?

The hybrid work model is likely to endure, as the global lockdown highlighted employees' desire for flexible work environments. Many have found increased productivity in hybrid settings, which also promote greater accessibility and inclusivity. Research indicates that a significant percentage of U.S. employees prefer working from home at least part of the time. Technological advancements have made it feasible for many roles to operate remotely, enabling organizations to adopt hybrid models more readily.

However, hybrid work is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is essential to allow employees the autonomy to choose their work environments based on their unique needs and commitments. Learning in hybrid settings presents challenges, but various platforms can facilitate effective L&D, including hands-on simulations and virtual lessons.

What societal transformations do you anticipate as we adapt to these fundamental changes in work?

The workplace will undergo significant transformations driven by technology, societal challenges like climate change, and the influx of new generations into the workforce. Employers must remain agile in their strategies and organizational cultures, as the future is unpredictable. Successful market leaders will adapt and respond to changing conditions, empowered by a workforce that embraces continuous learning and seeks out exciting career opportunities.

What challenges do you believe will be most difficult for employers and employees to navigate?

Employers face the challenge of keeping pace with a multitude of changes, including hybrid and remote work, automation, diverse generational expectations, and shifting societal demands. The key lies not in merely accepting change but in rapidly responding to it as new trends emerge, transforming disruption into growth opportunities.

Skills are critical in navigating uncertainty for both employers and employees, equipping them for future challenges. Developing transferable skills will prepare individuals for the inevitable changes ahead, making consistent upskilling crucial.

What gives you hope for the future of work, despite the challenges we discussed?

The future of work is unfolding, and it is vital for both employers and employees to respond in ways that foster growth. Rather than viewing change as a threat, we should embrace it and align it with our business strategies and career aspirations. The availability of diverse learning resources presents an opportunity for employees to cultivate skills that will prepare them for the future. Establishing a habit of continuous learning will provide a competitive edge as new technologies and methods of working emerge.

Historically, significant employment disruptions tend to be temporary, with new roles replacing those lost. However, there is often a gap between job losses and the emergence of new opportunities. How can we minimize this gap?

Organizations have typically relied on recruitment to fill talent shortages. However, given the persistent skills gap across industries, relying solely on recruitment is no longer feasible. Proactive upskilling and reskilling can help bridge this gap, ensuring employees remain employed even amid shifts caused by market or technological changes.

This approach involves assessing the current skills within the workforce and aligning them with future needs, offering targeted learning opportunities to develop essential skills. By maintaining a talent pipeline prepared for future demands, organizations can foster loyalty and strengthen their employer brand.

Now, let's discuss the primary question of our interview: What are your "Top 5 Trends To Watch In the Future of Work"? Please share examples for each.

1. Emphasis on Skills: Understanding the skills present in your workforce and what is needed for the future is crucial. As AI evolves, the demand for new skills will increase. For instance, it's estimated that 30% of hours worked in the U.S. will be automated by 2030.
2. Worker Retention: As the demand for certain skills rises, organizations will increasingly look internally to fill roles. Programs like Unilever's U-Work illustrate how companies can retain valuable employees by accommodating their needs and commitments.
3. Advancing Inclusivity: While strides have been made towards inclusivity, there is still work to be done. Organizations must continuously learn how to create safe spaces for all employees and leverage technology to enhance diversity and inclusion efforts.
4. Addressing Gen Z and Gen Alpha Skill Gaps: As the newest workforce entrants, these generations may require targeted upskilling to develop essential social skills. Employers should consider implementing specific programs to support these demographics.
5. Expansion of Hybrid Work: The hybrid work model is not only here to stay but will also evolve as companies develop the necessary infrastructure. This trend will allow for greater flexibility and access to talent from diverse backgrounds.

Finally, could you share your favorite life lesson quote and its impact on your perspective?

"Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do" — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

This quote resonates with me deeply, especially in the learning field. Often, the motivation behind learning gets overlooked. People invest time in learning to achieve specific outcomes, whether personal or professional. This quote succinctly captures the essence of translating knowledge into action.

In closing, is there someone you would love to have a private meal with, and why?

I would love to share a meal with Kelly Slater. As a fellow surfer, I believe there’s a wealth of knowledge and experience I could gain from the GOAT.

How can our readers follow your work online?

You can connect with me on LinkedIn or explore Skillable's latest insights and research on our website.

Thank you for sharing your valuable insights, Danny. We appreciate your time and wish you continued success and health.

About The Interviewer

Phil La Duke is a renowned speaker and writer with over 3,500 published works. He has contributed to various prominent publications and authored several books, focusing on workplace safety and violence prevention. Phil is also recognized as a thought leader in multiple fields and serves on numerous biomedical research oversight boards. Currently, he works as a COVID Compliance and Production Safety Consultant in the film and television industry.

Follow Phil on Twitter @philladuke, on Facebook, or visit his author's page on Amazon for more insights.